Juan Jose Cameo is Benjamin Otalora, a young man who leaves Buenos Aires after murdering a rival. He goes to Montevideo where his cool boldness draws the attention of gang leader Azevedo Bandeira [Francisco Rabal]. When the old bandit becomes ill, Otolora makes a determined play to take his place. The younger man's bold ambition is viewed cautiously by all of the henchmen of the old man and by his lover. Who will, in the end win?